Cuchara s house Margarita, in which the regulation fresh lime juice and Espolon Blanco tequila are mellowed by a piloncillo sugar syrup that adds a burnished warmth to the drink. Instead of the usual Triple Sec, there s a dash of Pierre Ferrand Dry Cura ao less

Cuchara s house Margarita, in which the regulation fresh lime juice and Espolon Blanco tequila are mellowed by a piloncillo sugar syrup that adds a burnished warmth to the drink. Instead of the usual Triple ... more

Photo: Alison Cook

Image 34 of 45

Mini doughnuts, a dessert choice from the comida corrida lunch menu at Cuchara.

Mini doughnuts, a dessert choice from the comida corrida lunch menu at Cuchara.

The side dining terrace at Cuchara features a mural by Mexico City's Cecilia Beaven.

The side dining terrace at Cuchara features a mural by Mexico City's Cecilia Beaven.

Photo: Alison Cook

Image 44 of 45

The front dining terrace at Cuchara, at the corner of Taft and Fairview in Montrose.

The front dining terrace at Cuchara, at the corner of Taft and Fairview in Montrose.

Photo: Alison Cook

Image 45 of 45

Co-owners Charlie McDaniel and Ana Beaven have created a magical atmosphere at Cuchara.

Co-owners Charlie McDaniel and Ana Beaven have created a magical atmosphere at Cuchara.

Photo: Johnny Hanson, Staff

51. Cuchara

1 / 45

Back to Gallery

Why it matters: This striking restaurant combines the visual sophistication of Mexico City with vivid, homey cooking by an all-female kitchen. Come for the antic murals and the lively bar; stay for wonderfully differentiated salsas and clever antojitos.

What to order: Tacos Chelo with potato and salsa verde; huitlacoche quesadillas; picaditas; enchiladas Tres Damas; comida corrida lunch; red or white chilaquiles, tamal Costeña and pozole verde at brunch; Michelada Cuchara.Inside track: The Saturday and Sunday brunch is one of the best in town; and prix-fixe weekday comida corrida lunches are a soulful bargain. Special holiday events are a blast.Cuisine: Mexican/Tex-Mex